bursting pipes freezing pipes frozen pipes thawing burst pipes tips for frozen pipes

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

Locate the Frozen Pipe

  • If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe.
  • Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water enters your home through the foundation.
  • If you are unable to pinpoint or if the frozen area is not accessible, call us.

Keep the Faucet Open

  • Before attempting to thaw the pipe, open the faucet that the pipe feeds water into. Open both the hot and cold handles. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.

Apply Heat Until Water Pressure is Restored

  • You can use an electric heating pad, hair dryer, or space heater, or wrap the pipes with hot towels.
  • Do not use any open flammable device, such as a blowtorch, propane heater, etc.
  • Check all other faucets in your home.
  • If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

If the Pipe Bursts

  • Shut off the main water valve immediately – this will prevent additional water from flowing and damaging your property.
  • The main shut-off valve is often located near the water meter.
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